How to Pronounce "play the heavy"
expression
PLAY thuh HEV-ee
play thuh HEV-ee
Definition
To act as the strict, harsh, or 'bad guy' in a situation, especially when enforcing rules or making unpopular decisions.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈpɫeɪ/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈhɛvi
British English
plˈeɪ/ /ðə, ði/ /hˈɛvi
Simplified Pronunciation
US
PLAY thuh HEV-ee
UK
play thuh HEV-ee
Listen in Context
Sometimes a parent has to play the heavy to teach children a lesson.
My boss asked me to play the heavy and fire the employee.
No one wanted to play the heavy at the meeting.
I hate having to play the heavy, but someone has to say no.